[Jingyan's mother has always been a little mysterious, not at all like her friend. Nihuang hadn't really considered it much as a child, taking her for granted in the same way she had all indulgent adults who didn't swing swords; the lonely passing years, especially the charged events of the latest one, have taught her a greater appreciation for her little aunt and the subtle and clever side of that made her such a formidable ally.]

Aunt Jing, [she says now, mind racing ahead,] Don't be troubled. If you cannot say, I will understand, I know you will tell me what I need to know so that we can accomplish what we need to accomplish. [All true. Nihuang has absolute faith in madame's intentions. But also, please don't... feel pressured to mislead her about anything... Nihuang is just about full up.]